Torah Commentary - Devarim

We have become accustomed to studying Portions where God speaks through Moses, but in Devarim, the first Portion in the Book of Deuteronomy (Sefer Devarim), Moses speaks on his own. Moses is fully aware that this is his final chance to address the children of Israel; that his death is imminent; that he won't be going with his people into the land of Canaan. Still, Moses doesn't show resentment or disappointment.

Through the eleven Portions of Deuteronomy, Moses continues to lead. Ever the wise teacher, Moses reviews for the children of Israel the details of their forty year journey including their conquests, their fears, their failures to heed God's commandments.
Moses confidently acknowledges that he set up an effective system of delegating leadership responsibilities (following his father-in-law Yitro's advice, although Moses doesn't mention this here). (Deuteronomy 1:15-18)
Moses cites instances where he told the children of Israel of God's commandments which they refused to follow and so suffered for their rebellious ways.
Moses forcefully reminds the children of Israel that God is with them in their efforts to claim the land that God has given them. (Deuteronomy 3:21-22)

Moses, the powerful central figure of Devarim is also Moses, the extremely senior citizen. The 120 year old Moses is still vigorously engaged in fulfilling his longstanding role as God's spokesperson. He demonstrates excellent recall, eloquent oratory, a magnificent presence, and an amazingly unselfish desire to see the children of Israel succeed in settling Canaan, their God-given homeland.
Although he knows his last days are near, Moses doesn't express bitterness, anger, or regret. He doesn't envy the younger generation who will enter Canaan without him. He accepts his destiny as God has decreed and keeps on leading and teaching.

In today's world, aging and the elderly are depicted in a very different way.
"Stay young! Stay independent! Live happily ever after!" exhort the ads for everything from Jazzercise to mobility scooters to retirement planning.
"Banish wrinkles! Tighten your abs! Replace your knees!" In modern times aging is a challenge to be energetically overcome with grim determination - and large sums of money!
But despite the costly efforts of medical science and mass marketing, longevity is often accompanied by unpreventable physical and mental deterioration - sad to watch and painful to endure. That's the reality.

Fortunately, those of us who are halfway or more along in life's journey, can find special comfort and inspiration in the Torah's portrayal of the elderly, but commanding figure of Moses in Devarim.
We are strengthened by having Moses as our role model and Devarim as a "Senior Moment" in the very best sense of the term.

Shabbat Shalom.